“Deputy Chief Smith’s 27 years of service to the police department as well as to the Durham community makes him an excellent choice to serve in the interim chief position as recruitment begins for a new police chief,” Durham City Manager Tom Bonfield said in a statement. “Smith is a well-respected leader in the department, and I’m happy that he was willing to provide continuity until a new police chief is named.”

Smith, a Durham native and graduate of Northern High School, has spent his entire career at the Durham Police Department, rising through the ranks from uniform patrol, special operations, captain of District 2, and assistant chief of investigative services. He was named deputy chief of operations in July 2012.

Joseph MallardDec 2, 2015

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Trust me, Joseph Mallard, the citizens of Durham are very happy you only have to come to our dangerous scary city with black people for your VA appointments. Now go play in Cary, where everyone is white and safe. /s

— Posted by Libby Lynn

You are wrong also Libby. I do not live in Cary. In fact, I could count the times that I have even been to Cary, on one hand. Not sure why you are so resentful of me, but I wont lose any sleep over your opinion.

Joseph MallardDec 2, 2015

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Probably because you said something racist to them Joe, unless it's a lie altogether which it sounds like. Don't always feel intimidated they may have just been asking for directions. Came at you huh? Stop staying in run down hotels and you won't be scared.

— Posted by Gary Christian

Sorry slick. You are wrong on both accounts. First, you can go to the city clerk and obtain a copy of the report, although you won't. Second, this was at a Holiday Inn. I wouldn't call them a "run down hotel".

Ray RiveraDec 1, 2015

Good job Chief Lopez, this isn't Park Street or Albany Avenue but you did well, despite the politics. Enjoy retirement, go cycling, read books; maybe teach a few classes at the local community college.

Mark ColyerDec 1, 2015

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Trust me, Joseph Mallard, the citizens of Durham are very happy you only have to come to our dangerous scary city with black people for your VA appointments. Now go play in Cary, where everyone is white and safe. /s

— Posted by Libby Lynn

...Libb Libby Libby on the label...Guessing you have never been to Cary?

Gerald ElliottDec 1, 2015

You could not have picked a finer person. Larry is a great person and a great leader. Congrats my friend.